Lauren Kozal named to 2022 MAC Hermann trophy watchlist
MSU goaltender Lauren Kozal winds up for a goal kick in the Spartans’ 1-0 home loss to Wisconsin on Sept. 24, 2021/ Photo Credit: Sarah Smith/WDBM
August 22, 2022
EAST LANSING – Michigan State goalkeeper Lauren Kozal was named to the 2022 MAC Hermann trophy watchlist- the most prestigious award for college soccer players in the country. The list was announced on Thursday, Aug.18, by United Soccer Coaches.
The award is presented annually by the Missouri Athletic Club and MSU’s shot-stopper made the list of 60 NCAA Division I women’s soccer players that are bound to have an impactful season.
The BEST in the business, getting the respect she deserves
CONGRATULATIONS to Lauren on her historic selection to the MAC Hermann Trophy Watch List👏🏆#GoGreen pic.twitter.com/PFMZ8jpjs3
— Michigan State Soccer (@MSU_wsoccer) August 18, 2022
Last year’s women’s winner of the MAC Hermann trophy was Florida State University’s Jaelin Howell, who now plays for NWSL side Racing Louisville FC.
In 2021, Kozal was named the Big Ten goalkeeper of the year and a United Soccer Coaches All-American after recording seven clean sheets. She made a total of 75 saves in 17 games.
“I think that, given the growth she has shown, she’s a better goalkeeper today than she has ever been,” head coach Jeff Hosler said in a press release. “In my opinion, she is by far the best goalkeeper in this senior class. I don’t know if there is a better goalkeeper in the country.”
Her 50th career appearance for MSU came on Thursday after the Spartans defeated Bowling Green State University in their season opener.
Kozal kept a clean sheet, and the Spartans left Cochrane Stadium with a 2-0 win to start the 2022 season.
On Nov. 30, United Soccer Coaches will announce 15 women’s players as semifinalists for the MAC Hermann trophy. The winner will be revealed on Jan. 6 in St. Louis.
